Nneka Ogwumike Climbs to Sixth on WNBA All-Time Scoring List as Storm Defeat Valkyries

Nneka Ogwumike netted 22 points Wednesday night, propelling her into sixth place on the WNBA's all-time scoring list. The Seattle Storm secured a 67-58 victory against the Golden State Valkyries, showcasing Ogwumike's pivotal role in the game.

With this performance, Ogwumike surpassed Candice Dupree, who previously held the sixth spot with 6,895 points. Now, Ogwumike trails only Tamika Catchings, who amassed 7,380 points throughout her illustrious career.

In a crucial fourth quarter, Ogwumike emerged as a key player for the Storm (14-9), contributing 11 of her total points during this period. A critical layup with 2:09 left on the clock and two free throws at the 1:18 mark helped solidify Seattle's lead at 61-54.

Erica Wheeler also made her mark, particularly in the third quarter, where she hit consecutive three-pointers early on and followed up with a running layup at 7:41, pushing the Storm ahead 39-33.

Wheeler's momentum continued as she completed a three-point play with 2:32 remaining in the third, extending Seattle's lead to 45-37. The Valkyries (10-12) fought back, narrowing the gap to 56-54 after Veronica Burton's layup with just 4:48 left in regulation.

Despite Golden State's late-game surge, Ogwumike's timely contributions were instrumental in maintaining the Storm's advantage.

Wheeler finished the game with 15 points, while Skylar Diggins added 10 and Lexie Brown contributed seven off the bench. For the Valkyries, Cecilia Zandalasini scored 12 points and Janelle Salaun chipped in with 10.

The Storm will face off against the Dallas Wings on Tuesday, while the Valkyries are set to host the same team on July 25.